Moscow Live - Chevrolet Niva Concept

The Chevrolet Niva Concept previewing the next iteration of the compact Russian SUV has been unveiled at the 2014 Moscow Motor Show (Moscow International Auto Salon 2014) today.

The design is a huge leap ahead compared to the current car that has gotten long in the tooth. The concept features narrow headlamps, hexagonal grille, circular foglamps and black plastic lower body cladding with a silver skid plate.

To highlight its off-road character, the Niva concept sports a snorkel, bumper-mounted winch, roof-mounted spot lights, off road tyres and a roof carrier which accommodates the spare wheel.

Despite an increase in length, the Niva still has a compact stance in profile. The design highlight is a strong crease that emanates near the front wheel arch and ascends gradually till the rear door and sweeps upwards post it.

The new interior gets a typical three-spoke Chevy steering wheel. The upright centre panel houses a music system and controls for AC.

Power comes from a 1.8-litre petrol engine whose power output is not revealed. However, the Russian media suggest that it is a Peugeot-sourced mill developing 135 bhp (100 KW).

The transmission is a 5-speed unit from GM which sends power to all four wheels via a full time 4WD system with lockable differential. The company says that the torque output of the new engine is 30% more that that of the current engine.

Just like the current SUV, the 2016 Chevrolet Niva would be produced at AvtoVAZ's Tolyatti plant.